Sunday, December 14, 2008
Conniry #17: Changing "Practical Theology"
17. We observed that “practical theology” became widely popular in the 1980s and 90s. We also discussed the (unsettling) change that has occurred among the readers of such popular material between the mid 20th century and late 20th century. Be pre-pared to identify what, specifically, has changed. Be ready as well as to reflect on the challenges that this poses for would-be theologians in the 21st century.
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I was not here for this class, so I am at a loss for what to write. I will email around to get notes. Maybe someone will post it in foxtale.
ReplyDelete-jeff
I do not have any notes on this either...I was gone too!!! Corbin?
ReplyDeleteThe new breed of practical theology was a reaction to the vacuum created by the academic focus on theology (dogma and foundationalist apologetics etc.). In general, this was a (renewed) potent theological force whose focus was directed toward concrete aspects of Christian living.
ReplyDeleteThis lead to a resurgence of popularity for practical theologians, originally bringing men like CS Lewis, GK Chesterton and TS Elliot to the forefront. Later, this same trend has lead to the rise of those like B. McLaren, Philip Yancey and Max Lucado.
The unsettling change (I think): Was that Christian faith came to stake its importance in the lives of its individual communities as they engaged in and among the cultures that they were a part of. Church could no longer be about disconnected and abstract theology (or as bifurcated between secular and sacred), but rather unified, concrete and relevant for people's day to day lives.
-CL
Hey, guys, a BIG thanks to everyone who participated and got 'er done. You have helped turn this potentially huge task into something quite manageable. God bless.
ReplyDeleteHave a great break, and good luck!
-Corbin
right back at ya bro!
ReplyDelete